Former Minister of Police Affairs, Alhaji Adamu Maina Waziri, has sparked debate with his recent comments on President Bola Tinubu's potential re-election bid in 2027. According to Waziri, there's nothing wrong with Nigerians opposing Tinubu's re-election, citing the president's own history of rebelling against his fellow southerner, former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Waziri's Argument
Waziri pointed out that Tinubu led a rebellion against Obasanjo in 2003, despite Obasanjo being a southerner. He emphasized that Nigerians have the right to reject leaders who aren't performing, regardless of their region or ethnicity. "What we are doing today by resisting Tinubu is justified. He must be judged by his performance, not by regional claims or sentiments," Waziri stated.
Performance-Based Leadership
Waziri's comments highlight the importance of performance-based leadership. He noted that Obasanjo's administration earned public trust through visible development, improved security, and national unity. In contrast, Tinubu's government is facing criticism for its perceived failures, which Waziri believes justify opposition to his potential re-election bid.
Implications for Nigerian Politics
Waziri's statement has significant implications for Nigerian politics, particularly with the 2027 presidential election on the horizon. As opposition parties and civil society groups continue to hold the Tinubu administration accountable, Waziri's comments may embolden those seeking to challenge the president's re-election bid.
Diverse Perspectives
It's worth noting that not everyone shares Waziri's views. Some politicians, like Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, have expressed support for Tinubu's re-election bid, claiming that no governor would oppose him in 2027. However, Waziri's comments reflect a growing sentiment among Nigerians who prioritize performance-based leadership over regional or ethnic loyalty ¹ ².
